This will be such a great summer read! I really enjoyed getting to see Trinidad step back into her hot girl summer business. It was great to see her get to explore that side of herself after years of focusing on her kids and her career. I think that the dynamic between her and Orlando was done very well. This was a fast-paced romance and through their few days together on this forced vacation, they grew a lot and learned so much about each other that the love they showcase felt very real to the reader. The spice was SPICY too, they were a match for each other both in and out of the bedroom WOW. I like that Orlando stood up for his own life and wants with his family as that is a tough situation for anyone to navigate and while he learned new things about himself Trinidad was there as his support. I appreciated how this ended again, given its fast paced plot. Super enjoyable read! This cover is what drew me in (I mean cmon, its GORGEOUS) but the story kept me hooked!

The HEA always makes a long journey worth it. The pace of this one tho sometimes felt like walking the green mile. While I love the way Cunningham highlights cultures, gives us stories from non traditional dynamics, and paints the most vivid picture of the sights, sounds, and taste of her stories. This one was heavy on the internal monologues and it slowed the pacing way down. With a title Like Ms. V’s Got Girl Summer I was expecting for there to be less angst and more wild carefreeness, and then dealing with the consequences after. I think the balance between the growth, the unpacking of emotions, the romance, and the fun just could have been better. Overall I love so many of the things Cunningham does and incorporates that I still enjoyed the story. It just took me longer than usual to get into the and for the story to really get going. And once it did I felt like the romance and the couple had to split to much time between the other aspects of the story to really connect to the romance. I wouldn’t say it read like women’s fiction but it toes the line.

A.H. Cunningham delivered a sizzling and heartwarming age-gap romance in Ms. V's Hot Girl Summer, where a single mom rediscovers herself and a connection she never expected during a vibrant Carnival.

Plot Summary:
Trinidad Velasquez has spent years prioritizing stability for her twin sons. But when a surprise vacation throws her together with Orlando Wiggins, a younger man who's always held her attention, Trinidad dares to explore a passion she thought she'd left behind.

My Thoughts:
I absolutely adored Trinidad and Orlando! Their chemistry was undeniable, and it was beautiful to see Trinidad embrace a renewed, more vibrant version of herself. I especially appreciated the thoughtful exploration of her feelings about the age difference, and the inclusion of a supportive voice to discuss those concerns.

The contrasting settings of NYC and the small town of Ofele were wonderfully depicted, but it was the vivid and immersive descriptions of Carnival that truly brought this story to life. The cultural richness and the way it connected Trinidad and Orlando were fantastic.

Beyond the romance, I loved seeing the personal growth of both characters. Orlando's journey of learning to lean on his friends and pursue his own desires, rather than solely carrying the weight of his mother's care, was particularly impactful. As an Afro-Latina reader, the culture in this book was a joy to experience.

Tropes:
⭐ Single Mom
⏳ Age Gap
🏖️ Vacation Fling
🗓️ Only for the Carnival Weekend
🌶️ Semi-Public Play
🥰 He Falls First
💘 Matchmaking Kids

Representation:
-Black Latinx MCs
-Jamaican & Garifuna MMC
-Dominican FMC
-Caretaking of a Mentally Ill Parent

Final Thoughts:
Ms. V's Hot Girl Summer is a vibrant, spicy, and heartwarming romance that celebrates second chances and the joy of embracing life. The rich cultural backdrop of Carnival and the genuine connection between Trinidad and Orlando make this a fantastic read.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Thanks to A.H. Cunningham, Harlequin, and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book.

The audiobook of Ms. V's Hot Girl Summer is an absolute delight. Jesus E. Martinez and Esme Ramos bring the story to life in such a captivating way. Their narration perfectly captures the characters' energy and emotion and the Carnival's vibrant atmosphere. I was utterly immersed in the story from start to finish. The audiobook enhances the reading experience, making it even more enjoyable. It's a fantastic way to experience this incredible story.

This was my first age gap romance and I actually liked it!

Trinidad is looking for a man to feel the void her ex husband has left in her life. She resorts to a man who doesn't really want a serious relationship. But then there's Orlando, who's 10 years younger, but makes her feel something more.

I liked how Trinidad finally gives in to her younger, wilder self. I'm so glad Carnival helped her let loose! Butttt I did feel like Trinidad came across older than she actually is at times. Or that the age gap was 20 years vs 10. 🤷🏾‍♀️ Just a personal opinion, being that we are the same age 😂.

Orlando comes across as a mature guy who's had to grow up fast. I loved how he has a "wake up call" too. It's just not us ladies who carry everyone's worries and burdens around.

The setting was festive and descriptive, where I felt like I was at Carnival too! I enjoyed the bits of Spanish which were sprinkled throughout the book.

This book is perfect for the summertime - it definitely brings hot girl summer vibes!

Thank you to NetGalley & Afterglow Books by Harlequin for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.❤️

Ms. V’s Hot Girl Summer was quick, cute, and spicy! I loved seeing Trinidad let loose and rediscover herself during Carnival. The chemistry with Orlando brought the heat, and the vibrant setting made it a fun escape. A solid read if you’re in the mood for a flirty, feel-good getaway!

Final rating 3.5 stars

Ms. V's Hot Girl Summer by A.H. Cunningham delivers exactly what the title suggests! Trinidad and Orlando's physical chemistry sizzles off the page, and it's almost enough to forget their age gap. A.H. crafts both characters in a very realistic way. This is proudly an Own Voices story. The descriptions of the freedom that carnival brings can't be overstated. Feteing with a partner is the kind of fun that everyone should experience once in their lifetime.

As much as I love their chemistry, I wasn't completely sold on their romance lasting past their whirlwind weekend. Overall, I still recommend this, especially with the Caribbean and Latinx representation!

Thank you to Harlequin - Romance/Afterglow Books by Harlequin for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

cool summer-y read with some 🌶️ romance. good characters generally and good vibes throughout. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.

Mama gotta have a life, too! She’s done raising her sons, and now, it’s time for mama to get her grove back, and her back cracked. Not a fan of age-gaps, but this worked for me.

This was excellent!

I had a really great time, and Ms. V's running commentary in her brain was everything and so relateable. I loved how their relationship blossomed over time. Loved that although there was an age gap, it made sense. The character work was brilliant and although I found the ending a little quickly resolved, I had a really great time.

I really in love with the A.H. Cunningham's writing and the carribean flair she brings to all her novels. Her novels are a love letter to carribean heritage and I want nothing more than more and more of her books.

Thank you to Harlequin Afterglow, Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for an early copy.

A cute and quick read—I enjoyed it overall! With everything both characters had going on, I do wish it had been a bit longer to really dive into and resolve some of those issues more fully. Trinidad really seemed to only be interested in Milton because she wanted a father figure for her boys and a “traditional” family unit. She falls for Orlando soon after even though he’s going to be stepping into a huge role now. IDK, I wasn’t completely sold on the romance between them, and I think it would’ve been more fun to see her cut loose at carnival on her own terms instead of being pushed into Orlando’s situation while there too. I guess my favorite part was the twins, I love that it was their mischief that set this up.

4.5 stars.

"Ms. V's Hot Girl Summer" by A.H. Cunningham is SIZZLING! SCORCHING! WONDERFUL! I had a blast reading this spicy age-gap (she's older!) Latinx romance that is equal parts dramatic, compelling, fun, and funny. This story is well-developed, and the characters feel realistic and lived-in. Trinidad is a 35-year-old mother of two twin boys looking for a stable adult relationship. Unfortunately, she thinks she's going to find that with Milton, who doesn't seem to be on the same page as her. After her sons meddle in her affairs and book her a vacation she wasn't expecting but definitely needed, she ends up spending time with Orlando, the 25-year-old mentor of her two boys, who is also in town for Carnival. I loved the chemistry between Trinidad and Orlando! Their vibing goes well beyond the physical (though that is reeeeeeal good, too). There is also a healthy dose of well-earned yearning and tension between the two of them, which I loved. They come to respect each other for many reasons, which are divulged through mature conversations and explorations of and with one another. They both make huge strides as characters, both together and separately. Their character arcs are great! The age gap is handled with respect and a slight cautiousness, but once Trinidad and Orlando let down their walls and loosen up, all bets are off as they begin to enjoy their vacation at its fullest. This book is vibrant and steeped with Caribbean culture. I loved learning about Carnival! The pacing is a little bit slow in the middle, but the beginning and ending moved quickly, so it didn't bother me too much. I highly recommend this book! You can always count on A.H. Cunningham to write a fantastic spice-filled romp!

Thank you to NetGalley, A.H. Cunningham, Harlequin - Romance, and Afterglow Books by Harlequin for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it! Lovedd it!

DNF at 63%. I liked the cultural elements of this book, especially with it taking place during Carnival. And Trinidad as a lead is pretty interesting. But the focus on lust over an emotional connection was a sticking point for me, and kept me from feeling emotionally invested in the romance.

I really enjoyed this read. The instant attraction between Trinidad and Orlando was palpable and set the tone for a compelling romance. Though there’s a noticeable age gap between them, it’s handled with care and maturity, adding depth rather than drama. Orlando helps Trinidad let go of her constant sense of duty and finally embrace a life led by passion and possibility. This is definitely a slow burn—but one that builds beautifully and pays off in all the right ways. Overall, a heartfelt second-chance romance that’s both emotional and satisfying.

**Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Romance for this ARC*

Trinidad is a 35yo single mom of two, looking for stability and long term partnership. Orlando is 25yo trying to build a life to support his loved ones and a caretaker for his Mom. The two have been privately lusting after each other the whole two years Orlando has been mentoring Ms. V’s (Trinidad) sons. Orlando doesn’t think Ms. V even likes him and he’s got some life changing decisions he needs to make. Ms. V is already dating a stable man, and although Orlando is tempting to look at, he’s too young. They both start to see things in a different light after Ms. V gets tricked by her sons into a weekend away… the same weekend Orlando has been planning to attend Carnival for months.

I really appreciated each characters individual storylines, Ms. V’s parenting style, and the healthy relationships. Character development was a central theme but not in a way that felt forced. Imagine being vulnerable and holding someone accountable for the impact of their actions and they apologize right away… then do better. The representation of Caribbean culture during Carnival was so fun. The description of all the activities and attire made me want to be there.

The tension between Ms. V and Orlando was palpable. Lots of flirting and failing at restraint. 😅I loved that Ms. V was not shy about her sexuality at all. My girl really got her groove back in a weekend. She might have Stella beat and I was living for every second of it. 😂

Ms. V’s Hot Girl Summer by @ahcwrites pubs later this month on April 29th and would be a great read to pick up for your first trip to the beach. Thank you to @ahcwrites and @harlequinbooks for the ARC 💚💚💚💚

I'll start by saying that I am a huge fan of AH Cunningham. I have read so many books by her and I have passionately loved every single one, so hey, this review might be biased.

I loved this book. I loved the meddling kids that wanted to give their mom a vacation. I loved the crazy situation for Trinidad being stranded and forced to live with Orlando. I loved Orlando. I loved the tension between them. I loved every bit of book.

I need everyone to read this. I need everyone to see the passion between these two, apart from the passion for Carnival. Like stop reading my review and read this book.

I got an e-arc of this book on NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A contemporary age-gap romance done RIGHT! A.H. Cunningham is so good at finding this perfect balance between reality and fantasy, and what you end up with is a Grown Adult romance that's sexy, joyful, and humorous without veering into the kind of triteness you find in your average romcom currently dominating publishing.

Ms. V, Trinidad, is a single mother of twin 15 year-old boys who BASICALLY parent-trap her in Florida during Carnival... except instead of with their dad, it's with their hot mentor who Trinidad has a crush on. And he's a decade younger than her! And now she's staying with him while they party it up during Carnival.... whatever will they do....

I'm trash for the moments in an age-gap romance where a younger hero is trying So Hard to prove that he's ACTUALLY a grown man, and we do get some of that here without taking it too far; and it makes sense because while Orlando is 25, he's been taking care of himself and his family for years. I also appreciate that whatever hang-ups Trinidad has about her being "too old" for him isn't harped upon too much either.

Reading Trinidad and Orlando's romance blossom with Carnival in Ofele, a fictional historically Black town, as the backdrop is EVERYTHING— it's sultry and eye-opening and the two of them quickly realize they want more permanence, but what that might look like.... is harder to figure out out. It's tough because Trinidad has bought into societal expectations of what "settling down with the right man" looks like to some degree, and is very conscious about having a positive role-model for her sons, but maybe that man's been closer to home far longer than she's realized...

The sex:

The thing I loved about this book is that Trinidad is an "older" (she's 35 lol) heroine who's in touch with her sexuality; neither she nor the narrative is trying to desexualize her before Orlando comes into the picture. Orlando might take charge of the situation initially (and he's a giver from the start!) but Trinidad gives as good as she gets... including TWO instances of public sex :D

Overall:

This honestly might be the perfect beach read— summery, sexy, and centering Black love and a romantic (re)awakenings.

Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

Rating: 4.5/5
Heat Level: 3.5/5
Pub Date: April 29th

Sexy.. Flirty.. Passionate.. This was so much fun!

"..here I was just Trinidad. Ms. V, if wanted to be extra nasty. "

Trinidad is a divorced, mother of twin teenage boys trying to make all of the right moves in an attempt to create some stability, (and to cool her hot pocket!)

Orlando is the younger, smart, determined man with a lot on his plate but willing to scrape it all off to get a taste of Miss V.

The scheming that took place to bring these two together was hilarious, kudos to meddling teenagers!!

This was a well paced romance with:
Age Gap
Forced Proximity
Steamy!
Afro-Latinx Representation

Did I already say steamy??

If you are looking for a mature spicy romance, I highly recommend you check this one out!

Trinidad Velasquez is a divorced, single mom of teenage twin boys. She is a hardworking woman who deserves a ‘hot’ fling instead of settling for ‘okay’. She gets that when her twin boys trick her into a Caribbean carnival adventure with one Orlando.

Orlando is ten years Trinidad’s junior and she can’t help but think of that when alllll the thoughts runs through her mind. However, tension arises and she can’t help but to fall for his charm.

This book follows a hardworking mother as she basically gets her groove back.

One thing I enjoyed about this book was how Trinidad was able to get hers. She was able to have the fun that she deserved. While this book didn’t fully resonate with me, I can appreciate the story.